Toronto Island: The Best in Canada – Photos & Activities!
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Toronto Island has so many islands (Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point)! I have attached a great Toronto Island map, which could be helpful for you to visualize the things you can do when visiting Toronto Island. I usually go to Centre Island and start my exploration from there.
Toronto Island Ferry Ticket
I have never bought Toronto Island ferry tickets online; I always purchase them at the counter right before entering the boat area where you will board. You can also buy tickets online, and I found two helpful links provided below. These ticket links are also useful for checking schedules and timings. Ferry timings vary slightly between summer, fall, and winter. While traveling, you’ll enjoy a nice view of the CN Tower. The ticket price to visit Toronto Island is reasonable. When I first visited, the adult ticket price was around 10 CAD, and for seniors and children, it was much less.
Toronto Island Parking
Usually, people living in downtown Toronto can walk to the ferry terminal to buy tickets and board the ferry. However, people from outside the city would definitely need parking. To provide this information to my readers, I looked into parking options near Toronto Island. I found a helpful website with details on parking options, offering various pricing differences so you can choose based on your preferences. Here is the link:
Toronto Island Parking Information
Is Toronto Island Open All Seasons?
Here’s some exciting news! Toronto Island is open all year round. However, during the winter off-season, not all ferries are scheduled to run. I remember visiting one winter (in 2022), and only Ward’s Island Ferry was operating. This might have changed, so you can check more updated information here:
Toronto Island Winter Schedule
You can also ask someone at the ticket booth for details before visiting during the off-season. If you enjoy winter adventures like me, you can still walk around Toronto Island during the winter season. There’s a path to go from one island to another, but most facilities are closed. Wherever you explore, you’ll need to return to Ward’s Island for the ferry. Don’t worry—having the Toronto Island map from this post should make you feel a bit safer!
Nearby, there’s also an airport where you can catch a view of airplanes landing up close.
Things to Do on Toronto Island
- Bike Rentals: On Toronto Island, you can rent bicycles to explore the area. I’ve also seen people bring their own bikes on the ferry to use there.
- William Meany Maze: If you’re up for a fun challenge, you might enjoy the William Meany Maze on Centre Island. It’s a delightful activity for children and adults, offering joy and a sense of adventure as you navigate the paths.
- Centreville Amusement Park: Located in the heart of Centre Island, this amusement park offers rides and attractions for children of all ages. It features kiddie coasters, an antique carousel, pony rides, bumper cars, a log flume ride, and more.
- Sports and Recreation: I’ve seen people playing soccer on the island. It’s also a great spot for picnics, family time, or even quiet study sessions.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: On Ward’s Island, you can try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP). You can rent a board, learn to paddle, or even join a yoga paddleboarding class! For more details, visit: Toronto Island SUP.
Food on the Island
There are several restaurants to choose from on Toronto Island. Although I haven’t tried the food myself, there are plenty of options available.
Toronto Island Restaurants
The Haunted Lighthouse
Ghost stories still haunt Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island. I once visited it at night to experience the eerie atmosphere for myself.
Winter Wonderland
Even in winter, as I mentioned, I visited Toronto Island to see and experience it—it looked beautiful at that time as well. Embrace the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes and capture breathtaking views against the backdrop of the city skyline.
Where to Stay Near Toronto Island
If you’re looking for accommodations near Centre Island, here are a few great options:
Westin Harbour Castle Hotel: Situated beside the ferry terminal, this hotel offers stunning views and modern amenities.
Radisson Blu: With its waterfront location and rooftop pool, this hotel provides a luxurious retreat.
Sheraton Centre Hotel: Conveniently located near Nathan Phillips Square and the Eaton Centre, this hotel features a year-round indoor/outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of island exploration.
